The Haig-Brown Environmental Stewardship Awards are back for a second year, and nominations are officially open!
A coalition of local organizations and First Nations have come together once again to celebrate individuals, youth, and organizations making meaningful contributions to environmental preservation, restoration, and innovation in our region. The awards are a community-driven effort, spearheaded by a committee representing the Museum at Campbell River, Greenways Land Trust, We Wai Kai First Nation’s Guardian Program, and Wei Wai Kum First Nation’s Guardian Program.
Now through September 15, 2025, the public is invited to submit nominations across seven categories that highlight key areas of environmental stewardship:
- Air Quality / Alternative Transportation – Honouring efforts to reduce emissions and promote cleaner transportation like walking, cycling, or transit.
- Pesticide-Free / Urban Agriculture – Recognizing efforts for advancing pesticide-free practices or local, sustainable food growing.
- Water / Energy Conservation – Celebrating efforts and initiatives that save water or boost energy efficiency at any scale.
- Habitat Protection / Creation – Acknowledging projects and individuals that protect, restore, or create spaces for native plants and wildlife.
- Waste Reduction – Rewarding creative and impactful efforts to reduce, reuse, or recycle waste.
- Youth Special Recognition – Shining a spotlight on a young individual or group for outstanding environmental leadership or innovation.
- Environmental Excellence – A standout individual or group making broad, long-term impacts across multiple areas of stewardship
Individuals, youth, groups, businesses, industry, and development projects are eligible in all categories. This year, nominations are welcomed from a broader geographic area, including Campbell River, Quadra Island and the other Discovery Islands, and as far north as Port Hardy.
“We really wanted to draw attention to all the outstanding work happening not just in Campbell River, but across the region,” says Shane Pollard, We Wai Kai First Nation’s Guardian Manager and committee member. “These awards are not only about celebrating achievements—they’re also a platform for sharing knowledge and inspiring others.”
Nomination Deadline is Monday, September 15, 2025.
A digital nomination form is available here, and a fillable PDF form is available to download here. Submit completed nomination forms via the online form linked above, to Greenways Land Trust in person, or by email to info@greenwaystrust.ca.
Winners will be recognized on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at the historic Haig-Brown House on the banks of the Campbell River. The awards ceremony is part of the Haig-Brown Festival and World Rivers Day celebrations, featuring live music, nature and history programs, local food vendors, and community spirit.
